A career in law enforcement offers a number of benefits, from protecting the community to saving lives. It also provides a steady salary and good retirement benefits. Before you can apply to be an officer, however, there are certain requirements you must meet to ensure you’re qualified to take on the role. Before getting the proper career training to be a police officer, here are a few of the prerequisites to consider.

What Are the Requirements of Being a Police Officer?

1. Basic Minimum Requirements

All applicants must have graduated from high school or passed their high school equivalency tests to be eligible to join the police force. Some police departments also require an associate’s degree, depending on the position applied for, such as law enforcement positions at a federal level. You must also be a United States citizen and at least 21 years old, as well as possess a valid driver’s license. 

2. Clean Record

During the application process, you will have to undergo a background investigation and drug test. If you have been convicted of a previous felony or sexual offense, this will disqualify you from law enforcement. 

3. Graduation from Police Academy

The police academy career training programs last several months and incorporate classroom and hands-on instruction. You will also have to learn how to apply first-aid, use firearms and self-defense techniques, and pass the physical fitness tests.

If you have what it takes to serve and protect your community, enroll in the police academy at Great Oaks Career Campuses in Cincinnati, OH. This premier trade school provides a wide range of career training courses in fields such as nursing, information technology, construction, and law enforcement. They also offer financial aid options to assist low-income students. Call (513) 771-8810 today to speak with a representative about enrollment. You can also visit them online for more information about their career training programs.